Too much stress could be linked to the spread of breast cancer

The Breast Cancer Site

By The Breast Cancer Site

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We're all familiar with stress and its side effects – anxious feelings, exhaustion, tension in your neck muscles and headaches, just to name a few. However, a new study has found that when a gene that is linked to stress becomes activated, it could lead to the spread of cancer cells. Researchers from Ohio State University identified a gene known as ATF3​, which is activated in response to external stressors, as the one that is aiding the spread of cancer. Normally, the ATF3 gene causes normal cells to "self-destruct" if they have been damaged beyond repair by stress. Cancerous tumors, however, have shown the ability to turn the gene on in immune system cells, causing them to be destroyed and incapable of preventing the spread of cancer.

While it hasn't been shown to cause cancer, stress can really take a toll on your body. Whether you are battling breast cancer or are experiencing symptoms of other ailments, decreasing your stress levels is always a good health move. You can lower your stress by:

Practicing yoga

Exercising regularly

Meditating during the day

Getting plenty of sleep

Taking time for a hobby

The Breast Cancer Site is a place where supporters and survivors come together to help fight breast cancer. In addition to sharing personal stories of hope, shopping for the cause, and signing petitions, visitors can take just a moment each day to click on a pink button to provide free mammograms for women in need. Visit The Breast Cancer Site and click today - it's free!